It’s time to sell, and you want to gussy up your home to receive guests. And not just any guests, potential buyers. Of course, your home should look, smell, and sound its best. So, how do you achieve that? Check out our Ten Tips to make your home irresistible.
1. Grab them from the curb.
You know what they say—“First impressions are lasting impressions,” and “Love at first sight is indeed real.” Well, the first impression your home gives to potential buyers could be the deciding factor between a showing and a drive by. Think about it, what you see from the driveway or the street is what brings people in or what drives them onto the next home for sale. Be sure the yard and driveway are cleaned, trimmed, tidied, and welcoming. Consider adding a few potted plants or small trees. A seasonal wreath on the front door is also a nice touch.
2. Make it sparkle—by sight and smell.
Pretend that your mother or mother-in-law is coming for a visit. Think hotel clean. Mop, dust, vacuum, wash windows, baseboards — even the cat. Remember that people will look in your cupboards, under your sinks, and in your closets. Tidy up all these areas and store excess items away from sight, if needed. Your closet should be organized and neat. Same for cabinets and cupboards. Also, pay particular attention to odors. You might even consider consulting a neutral nose by having a friend come by for a smell test. A few small bowls of potpourri or decorative home scenting systems may be needed.
3. Pay attention to color and light.
You may love hot pink in the living room, but bright colors will probably turn buyers off. Neutralize strong colors for the broadest appeal. A neutral home appears larger and appeals to a broader group of homebuyers. Also, open up blinds and draperies to make sure there's sufficient natural light throughout the home. Remember, lighting is the most effective way to set a mood.
4. Depersonalize.
This one can be a tough one. It’s time to take all of the photos and awards and reminders off of the fridge magnets. And de-clutter excessive personal items like photos, collections, personal awards, electronics, and personal collectibles. Potential buyers are looking at your home, not your stuff. And taking physical reminders like you and your family “out of the picture” makes it easier for buyers to imagine themselves and their stuff in the home.
5. Consider replacing furnishings.
Think about removing or replacing worn or outdated furnishings and get rid of extra pieces. The time has come to move beyond matching furniture, so break up your sets; dated can easily become eclectic with editing and rearranging. Consider consulting with a professional staging company for design direction and advice on rental furnishings to create an inviting home with broad appeal to a wide range of buyers.
6. Invest in new artwork.
Displaying new artwork is a great way to breathe new life into a room. Photography can be used to contemporize a room and add a splash of color as well. But remember, to keep the subject neutral with a wide appeal.
7. Make repairs.
Don’t forget to repair what’s broken, chipped, worn, or damaged. Repair squeaky doors, fix chipped or smudged paint and repair any broken fixtures or fittings that you've neglected. These details will not be overlooked and can make a tremendous impact at a showing.
8. Apply a fresh coat of paint.
It's the best bang for your buck that will quickly refresh a dull, dated room. Slap a fresh, neutral color on the space. Choose neutral and soothing colors like beige, pale blue, or taupe to update a tired and worn room. And the aroma of fresh paint is an added bonus.
9. Don't forget the floors.
Get rid of worn carpets, and consider refinishing shabby hardwood floors. An inexpensive new area rug is a quick fix and can disguise the look of old floors.
10. Spring for new light fixtures.
Renew the look of the room by replacing old or dated light fixtures, lamps, light switches, and outlets. If it's tacky and old, get it out of there. New and updated lights will not only brighten and lighten the space they will also add a modern touch.
If you have any questions about staging or selling your home in South Florida, contact a Tauber Real Estate Services specialist at 561-626-4633.